California auto accident victims have the right to pursue compensation that goes toward paying medical bills, lost wages, and other costs associated with their injuries. In some states, including California, victims may also obtain compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain, suffering, anxiety, or emotional distress. When seeking non-economic damages, it can be tricky to determine a fair amount of compensation, as these damages do not align with specific financial values. Here’s what you should know about pursuing pain and suffering damages after sustaining a car accident injury in Temecula or Murrieta.
What Counts as Pain and Suffering in California?
Pain and suffering fall under a category called “non-economic damages,” meaning that they do not carry a specific cost. For example, if you developed post-traumatic stress or anxiety after the accident, you can seek compensation for the negative impact these conditions have had on your quality of life. Similarly, if you experienced shock, grief, loss of enjoyment, or emotional distress, you can push for financial compensation. Auto accident victims are eligible to pursue non-economic damages following the incident, but they’ll need to show how the accident caused these negative outcomes.
Calculating Pain and Suffering Damages
California does not have a strict formula for calculating pain and suffering damages. Instead, you and your attorney need to show how the accident led to these conditions, which have negatively impacted your life and your future. Factors such as the severity of the injury, the amount of economic damages you’re seeking, the recklessness of the other driver’s actions, and the strength of your evidence will determine how much compensation you will receive in non-economic damages. If you can show that you had to visit a mental health therapist to manage your anxiety or take prescription medication to reduce stress resulting from the accident, your claim will become stronger. The more documentation you can provide, the more compelling your case will be.
How a Riverside County Auto Accident Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of an auto accident can be stressful, especially as you cope with your physical injuries. Working with a trusted Temecula auto accident lawyer is the best way to ensure your claim is strong enough to secure the compensation you need to get your life back on track. Your attorney will handle the settlement negotiations on your behalf while you focus on your physical, mental, and emotional recovery.
If you’ve suffered an auto accident injury in Temecula or Murrieta and you need help collecting compensation, call Hales & Associates, A Professional Law Corporation, today at (951) 489-3320 to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated attorney.